Athletic campus renamed for Erk Russell

CARROLLTON - For years, the name of Erk Russell has been perhaps more closely linked with Georgia Southern University athletics than any other name.

Now, that link is official.

The State Board of Regents is set to approve naming the main athletics area on the Georgia Southern campus the "Erk Russell Athletic Park" after the late head football coach who led the Eagles to three Division I-AA championships from 1981-89. Russell died in September 2006 from a stroke.

The area named after Russell would include Paulson Stadium, the Troy A. & Mozelle Cowart Building, the Gene Bishop Fieldhouse and the university's track and soccer facility.

"I think it's a fitting tribute," said Regent Richard Tucker, chairman of the board's Real Estate and Facilities Committee, which approved the renaming Tuesday. The full board, which rarely rejects the recommendation of one of its committees, is expected to approve the renaming today.

The board also signed off on an Alumni House and Welcome Center for the university. The $3.2 million project will be funded in part by $1 million in donations to the school.